Allentown fire sends family packing

A Saturday afternoon fire at 853 N. Sherman St. in Allentown damaged the basement of the twin home and displaced a family of six, city fire officials said.

The call came in just before 2 p.m., and the fire mostly was contained to the basement, with only minor damage to the first floor, said fire Capt. John Christopher. The flames were brought under control in about 20 minutes, he said. No injuries were reported.

There was smoke damage throughout the home, and electrical service was cut off as a precaution, Christopher said.

The Red Cross of the Greater Lehigh Valley provided the family of two adults and four children with food, lodging, infant supplies and comfort kits, and will follow up with additional services if needed, according to spokeswoman Jennifer Lo Conte.

The fire was ruled accidental, Christopher said. The cause had not been determined as of Sunday morning. No damage estimate was available.